The Supreme Court of Montenegro has decided to extend the detention of Edin Čaluk for an additional two months, following a request from the Higher State Prosecutor’s Office in Podgorica. This extension means that Čaluk will remain in custody until at least February 5, 2026. The court’s decision is based on substantial evidence suggesting that Čaluk committed the criminal offense of unauthorized production, possession, and distribution of narcotic drugs.
According to court documents, Čaluk is suspected of smuggling 131 kilograms of marijuana from Albania into Montenegro on September 5, 2023. Authorities allege that he crossed the border at the Božaj crossing point, intending to sell the drugs, which were organized into 114 plastic packages. The marijuana was hidden in a bunker within a Renault Iveco cargo vehicle.
The drugs were discovered during a routine scan and physical inspection at the customs terminal in Podgorica. This significant seizure highlights ongoing efforts by Montenegrin authorities to combat drug trafficking in the region.
The court emphasized the risk of flight as a key reason for extending Čaluk’s detention. The justices noted that he is a citizen of Bosnia and Herzegovina, frequently travels abroad, and has extensive international contacts that could facilitate his escape. This assessment contributed to the decision to keep him in custody as the investigation continues.
Initially, Čaluk’s detention was ordered by an investigative judge at the Higher Court in Podgorica on September 7, 2023, and was subsequently extended by the Criminal Council of the same court on October 3, 2023. With the new ruling from the Supreme Court, his detention can last until the specified date, ensuring that authorities maintain control over the case as it develops.
